Duce was a playmaker in New Orleans and then in Philadelphia last season, where he led the league in interceptions before ripping his pectoral muscle against Seattle in the home opener. He had surgery that was supposed to keep him out for six months, but a rigorous rehabilitation procedure has him months ahead of schedule. He returned to practice last week and appears to be a solid bet to earn some playing time before the postseason, whether that is this week or in the regular-season finale against Minnesota.
With Ifeatu Melifonwu breaking out in recent weeks, including an interception to close the game in Minnesota, and Kerby Joseph coming off a two-pick performance, Detroit will have to make some difficult roster selections.
“Look, both Iffy and Kerby are playing at a high level,” Campbell added. “(Brian) Branch is improving and playing some terrific football. Then you start saying, ‘All right, how do we develop a couple packages here, once you have him in there?’ So, look, we’re going to play the best players, those that offer us the best chance to win, and we’re going to put the best players on the field that we can, based on what (the opponent) is doing.”
James Houston has also been out since Week 2 after breaking his fibula in a loss to Seattle. He intended to participate in numerous games before the playoffs, but it has turned out to be wishful thinking. He could return to practice this week, but he might not until next week, which would put his game availability into the postseason.
“There’s a chance (he practices this week),” Campbell explained. “There’s a chance we’ll begin it. I don’t know why I mentioned it this morning. We could (start his clock), or we could wait a week. We’ll see where he ends up. He’s almost ready to start the timer.
